Sociologist Dr. Kevin Park argues that increased diversity in corporate leadership leads to better financial performance, not just improved company culture.
Which data would most directly support Park's financial claim?
Diverse companies receive positive media coverage
Many companies have diversity initiatives
Employees prefer diverse workplaces
Companies in the top quartile for executive diversity outperformed bottom-quartile companies by 35% in return on equity over five years
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Financial metric (ROE) + controlled comparison (top vs bottom quartile) proves the business case.
- Context clues: Park specifically claims "better financial performance."
- Evidence evaluation: 35% better ROE is a direct financial measure.
- Verify: Quartile comparison isolates diversity's effect on business outcomes.
💡 Strategy: Financial claims need standard financial metrics, not cultural benefits.